Check what you can and can’t bring on easyJet, TUI, Ryanair and Jet2 flights
Millions of Brits will fly overseas this summer, but many don’t know that certain foods may be banned on some airlines or taken away when entering Europe.
When you have already spent a fortune on seat reservations, extra baggage and airport parking, bringing your own snacks on a flight might seem like a good way to save a bit of extra money – but every airline has its own rules when it comes to what you can and can’t bring in your packed lunch. EasyJet, Ryanair, Jet2 and TUI all let you bring snacks on board, but there are limits on hot meals, hot drinks, alcohol and some foods.
Here’s your guide to the food and drink rules for easyJet, TUI, Ryanair and Jet2 in 2026, including what’s banned and restrictions when travelling between the UK and EU.
TUI
TUI passengers on long-haul flights lasting seven hours or more get meals and drinks included. On shorter flights, you can buy food from the in-flight café.
You can bring your own food on board, but cabin crew cannot store or heat it for you, except for warming baby bottles. You also cannot drink your own alcohol on board, reports the Express.
easyJet
EasyJet allows passengers to bring food into the cabin. However, liquids or semi-liquids like soup, yoghurt, custard and sauces must follow airport security liquid rules. You can bring hot drinks on board if you buy them after security and they’re in a secure cup with a lid. Different countries may have their own food import rules, so check before you travel.
Ryanair
Ryanair lets passengers bring their own food and soft drinks on board. However, you cannot bring hot drinks on board.
You also cannot drink your own alcohol during the flight, including duty-free purchases. Only alcohol served by the airline can be drunk on board.
Jet2
Jet2 has some of the strictest rules about food and drink. You cannot bring hot food or hot drinks on board for safety reasons. The airline can also refuse items that might bother other passengers, including foods with strong smells.
Jet2 passengers can still bring cold snacks and cold meals. Food and drinks are available to buy during the flight.
Food restrictions when travelling between the UK and EU
Remember that airline rules and border control rules are different. If you’re travelling from the UK to the EU, strict rules apply to bringing meat and dairy products into EU countries. This includes ham sandwiches, cheese sandwiches, sausages, yoghurt and milk products.
The EU enforces these rules to stop the spread of serious animal diseases. The UK also has restrictions on bringing certain meat and dairy products into Great Britain from EU countries. These rules can change, so check the latest government guidance before you travel.
While you can bring your own snacks, hot drinks, hot food, your own alcohol and certain meat or dairy products can cause problems, depending on your airline and destination.
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